[Indication and Contraindication of Video-Based Psychotherapy: A Qualitative Delphi Survey to Capture Psychotherapists' Reflection and Deliberation Processes].

Abstract

Objective: The Corona pandemic forced many psychotherapists to make a rapid transition to video setting. Even after the acute phase of the pandemic, video-based treatments can be determined to a certain extent in practice. Thus, indication and contraindication recommendations are essential to ensure treatment quality. However, empirical studies are almost completely lacking in this regard. In the context of this work, the decision-making and consideration processes of psychotherapists regarding video-based treatments are to be recorded and those factors that can have an effect on the indication are to be identified.

Methods: Two-stage, qualitative Delphi survey with psychodynamically oriented psychotherapists (n=9) and behavioural therapists (n=7) who can be assigned to the fields of research and practice.

Results: The quality of the therapeutic alliance guides the participants' choice of setting. An indication for video setting results from the feasibility of therapeutic interventions and the respective treatment goal. The therapists weighed the costs and benefits of video setting for various disorders. The changed feeling of control on both sides and the possibility of improving health care are decisive factors.

Discussion: Based on the results, a decision tree for psychotherapists was created, which includes the identified indication criteria.